Math

 

Hello MMS Math Families and Students -

 

For those new to standards-based grading and the retake process used at Mendenhall, we are hoping that this FAQ’s page can help answer the most common questions.  If you are still unclear about how to navigate the retake process, please reach out to your math teacher. 

 

To understand what it means that grades are determined using the standards-based grading system (SBG), please take a moment to view this slide presentation on SBG and why we use it over traditional grading:  

 

WHAT is SBG and WHY do my MMS math teachers use it? 

(Other topics addressed here are extra credit and the weighted grading of 90% quizzes; 10% homework.) 

 

Quiz and Retake FAQ’s

 

Are quizzes sent home?

A: No, we do not release quizzes to students, but they are able to see them after they are graded and they are kept in the classroom.

 

Who can retake a quiz? 

A:  Anyone who has scored below a “4” may retake their quiz.  

 

When I retake a quiz, do I get to keep the higher score if my retake score is lower?

A: No, your current score reflects your current level of understanding of the standard.

 

Are retakes mandatory?

A: No, but it gives you the opportunity to get a better grade on a quiz.  

 

How do I know if I should retake a quiz?  

Check your grade in Schoology to review what the score was on the quiz you are considering retaking.  

***If your grade was a 2 or lower, you should strongly consider retaking it.  

 

How many times can I retake my missed problems? 

A: You may retake many times as you are willing to study for and attempt a retake.  

 

When can I retake a quiz?

A: After your quiz has been graded, scored in Schoology, and you know what you’ve gotten wrong, you can start studying for your retake.  

 

What days are retakes offered?

A: See your math teacher for retake opportunities before or after school.

 

How much time do I get to do my retake?  

A:  You get up to another class period, so approximately 45-50 minutes. 

 

What if I can’t make the offered retake days/times? 

A:  Talk to your teacher and you can work together tol find a mutually agreeable day/time, which may end up being during class or lunch.  

 

What do I have to do in order to be allowed to retake my quiz?

1) You have to be able to correctly solve the type of question that you missed.  Once you know what you’ve missed and need to practice, your teacher can direct you to the necessary resources. Some examples may include:

1. a blank copy of the practice quiz
2. a help video that walks you through problems that you have encountered in class
3. Khan academy

**Please see your math teacher for exact requirements for your retake

 

Why do I have to do what the retake form asks me or do practice problems?  

A: The goal is to be successful and do better on your retake.  By showing your teacher what you’ve done to practice, we’ll know if you’re ready or if you still need help.  

 

What if I don’t know how to practice and am still struggling?  

A: Come see your teacher for help.

 

Is there a deadline for retaking a quiz?

A: Yes.  You may retake quizzes that are given within a trimester before the end-of-trimester grading cutoff, which is one week before the trimester ends.  

 

How do I find the cutoff date for retakes? 

A: Use this school year’s trimester dates as a guide.  Your teacher will regularly remind you of each cutoff date per trimester and post the date in the classroom.  Your best bet is always to retake as soon as possible; don’t wait until the last minute. 

 

Can I retake a quiz if I scored a “3”?  

A: Of course!  You can always aim for a higher score. Use the Level 4 practice quiz problem to help you get ready.  Level 4 is all about critical thinking skills, so create your own puzzlers to practice.